College Spotlight: University of Utah

Next in our lineup of college spotlights is the U.  Be aware:  the deadline for the Honors Program just around the corner...the earliest deadline of any program in the state.  I know that most of our students are somewhat familiar with the University, so this post just includes the information that is new or has changed.

• The Honors Program is a great way to have smaller classes (25-30 students, which is small at the U) while still enjoying the diversity and perks of being on an expansive University Campus.  Once accepted to the Honors Program, students can also apply for the esteemed Eccles Scholarship.  

• Deadlines:
• Honors Program, November 1st
• General Admission, December 1st
• Financial Aid (FAFSA & the Financial Need Application specific to the U), February 1st 

• The U has just completed the Lassonde Studios, which is already the center of innovation at the  U for undergrads.  Students can live at the Lassonde Studios (400 spaces), or simply engage in projects with other students.  Like the Honors Program, the Lassonde Studios helps to engage students from many different fields, and creates a small-college feel while simultaneously using the vast resources of the University.  It is a space for students to work collaboratively and work as entrepreneurs.    

• The U has repacked & renamed scholarships.  Be familiar with what YOU can apply for...because it is different than past years.  U of U Scholarship Page  Be sure to use the link for Freshman Scholarships as well as the link for Scholarship Database, which lists all scholarships on campus (department, major, special categories).  Be sure to have your XCel Spreadsheet ready to add in scholarships specific to you (see Blog Post: How to Organize Scholarship Applications )

• Admissions Officers advise all students to fully utilize the application!  Take advantage of short answers.  Fill in the awards section.  They really do review each application, and they want to know more information.
• If you had a bad semester explain it!
• If you don't have 2 years of a foreign language (which the U recommends), explain it!
• Take time to actually fill in the fields. 
• Be sure to read the question and answer it.  Too many students see part of the question and write an essay...be sure to take time and answer the question asked.  

• If a student is on free or reduced lunch, the U will offer an application fee waiver.